101 results about "Atmospheric moisture" patented technology

The present invention provides a low dielectric constant copper diffusion barrier film suitable for use in a semiconductor device and methods for fabricating such a film. Some embodiments of the film are formed of a silicon-based material doped with boron. Other embodiments are formed, at least in part, of boron nitride. Some such embodiments include a moisture barrier film that includes oxygen and / or carbon. Preferred embodiments of the copper diffusion barrier maintain a stable dielectric constant of less than 4.5 in the presence of atmospheric moisture.

The present invention relates to a process for preparing organyloxysilyl-terminated polymers which have increased stability toward atmospheric moisture, by reacting hydroxy-terminated organic polymers with isocyanato-functional silanes in the presence of at least one catalyst selected from the group consisting of bismuth and zinc compounds, and to crosslinkable compositions comprising such polymers.

A display device with multiple low temperature diamond coatings, including a substrate as a base; an anode layer residing on the diamond substrate for emitting holes; a hole drift layer that includes a doped diamond coating residing on the anode layer; an emissive layer for emitting light and residing on the hole drift layer. The display device also includes an electron transport layer that includes a doped diamond coating residing on the light emitting layer; a cathode layer, residing on the electron transport layer, for emitting electrons that will drift towards the light emitting layer; and a diamond coated encapsulation layer for sealing the display device from atmospheric moisture; wherein the multiple low temperature diamond coatings are all formed below 750° C. on the display device.

An atmospheric water harvester extracts water from high relative humidity air. The temperature of the surface of a condensation member is lowered in the presence of moist air to promote condensation of water vapor on its surface, and the water so obtained by condensation is collected. The atmospheric water harvester includes a photovoltaic member that generates electricity to power the refrigeration of the condensation member. At least as much electrical power is produced as is used to condense the water vapor so that no additional sources of electrical power are required. Each atmospheric water harvester (or array of harvesters) is rapidly installed and then operated in an unattended state for considerable periods of time. Arrays of autonomous atmospheric water harvesters can be installed as free-standing units or as roofs on either new or existing buildings.

An atmospheric water harvester extracts water from high relative humidity air. The temperature of the surface of a condensation member is lowered in the presence of moist air to promote condensation of water vapor on its surface, and the water so obtained by condensation is collected. The atmospheric water harvester includes a photovoltaic member that generates electricity to power the refrigeration of the condensation member. At least as much electrical power is produced as is used to condense the water vapor so that no additional sources of electrical power are required. Each atmospheric water harvester (or array of harvesters) is rapidly installed and then operated in an unattended state for considerable periods of time. Arrays of autonomous atmospheric water harvesters can be installed as free-standing units or as roofs on either new or existing buildings.

The present invention relates to a process for preparing silylated isocyanato-terminated polyurethane prepolymer which have increased stability toward atmospheric moisture, in the presence of at least one catalyst selected from the group consisting of bismuth and zinc compounds.

A condensation panel to be used for harvesting water from atmospheric moisture during those times of the diurnal cycle when relative humidity is at or near 100% utilizes very localized cooling to optimize condensation on a surface whose materials promote the condensation and collection of the water. The panel is passive in the sense that it can be deployed and left in an unmaintained condition for considerable periods of time. At least one time each day, almost certainly in the morning, water harvested by the process of assisted condensation can be collected for use.

The present invention provides a low dielectric constant copper diffusion barrier film suitable for use in a semiconductor device and methods for fabricating such a film. Some embodiments of the film are formed of a silicon-based material doped with boron. Other embodiments are formed, at least in part, of boron nitride. Some such embodiments include a moisture barrier film that includes oxygen and / or carbon. Preferred embodiments of the copper diffusion barrier maintain a stable dielectric constant of less than 4.5 in the presence of atmospheric moisture.

Disclosed is an air-water-catalyst-UV light contacting, air heating and cooling, humidifying and dehumidifying CHAMBER, which receives water that continuously recirculates through the water filtering, heating and cooling, (and deionizing) loop, which gets fresh outdoors air through the energy-efficient heat exchanger, which generates water from the atmospheric moisture, which stores and recirculates pure water through potable water holding tank, and to which is connected a novel design energy-efficient self-regulating steam distillation apparatus. Also, a water filtration system utilizing zwitterionic polymers as ion exchange and salt-absorbing and filtration media. Also disclosed are novel ionic and zwitterionic polymers, derived from cellulose.

Copper diffusion barrier films having a boron-doped silicon carbide layer with at least 25% boron by atomic weight of the layer composition have advantages for semiconductor device integration schemes. The films have an integration worthy etch selectivity to carbon doped oxide of at least 10 to 1, can adhere to copper with an adhesion energy of at least 20 J / m2, and can maintain an effective dielectric constant of less than 4.5 in the presence of atmospheric moisture. The films are suitable for use in a wide range of VLSI and ULSI structures and devices.

A device for absorbing atmospheric moisture includes a support member with a net extending therefrom. The net includes a super absorbent polymer that has the property of being able to absorb a multiple of the polymer mass in atmospheric water and to thereafter release the water in response to an external stimulus. The device is in this way reusable. The device has particular application in the clearing of fog, manure odor clearance, and collection of potable water in remote locations. A process for extracting atmospheric moisture is also detailed that includes the step of extending a super absorbent polymer net into contact with an atmosphere. Thereafter, with that being in contact with the atmosphere for a sufficient amount of time moisture is absorbed from the atmosphere. The application of a stimulus to the super absorbent polymer containing atmospheric moisture causes the release of liquid water therefrom. The super absorbent polymer is then suitable for reuse to again absorb atmospheric water.

Functionalized polymers and methods of functionalizing polymers with reactive species having decontaminating activity, such as polyoxometalates and metal oxides. Covalent bonding of the reactive species to the polymer securely immobilizes the reactive species and stabilizes the decontaminating activity of the reactive species. Specifically, the covalent bonding of the reactive species greatly reduces moisture deactivation during prolonged exposure to atmospheric moisture. Polyoxometalates are catalytically reactive through oxidative pathways and metal oxides are reactive through hydrolytic pathways. Both polyoxometalates and metal oxides having oxygen atoms available for covalent bonding with an appropriate bifunctional linking agent.

A number of apparatii for condensing water from the atmosphere are described, whereby atmospheric air is drawn through an enclosed space and moisture condenses on plates or similar contained within the enclosed space and subsequently collected. Most of the apparatii include means to increase the flow of air through the enclosed space to increase the efficiency of moisture collection. A typical apparatus includes a body (11) supporting condenser plates (15) of conical or frusto-conical configuration. Extractor fans, the operation of which are controlled by humidity sensing switches and temperature sensors, provide the increased flow. To promote condensation, typically, cooling ducts (49) are provided through which air-conditioned cool air is passed.

Films having high hermeticity and a low dielectric constant can be used as copper diffusion barrier films, etch stop films, CMP stop films and other hardmasks during IC fabrication. Hermetic films can protect the underlying layers, such as layers of metal and dielectric, from exposure to atmospheric moisture and oxygen, thereby preventing undesirable oxidation of metal surfaces and absorption of moisture by a dielectric. Specifically, a bi-layer film having a hermetic bottom layer composed of hydrogen doped carbon and a low dielectric constant (low-k) top layer composed of low-k silicon carbide (e.g., high carbon content hydrogen doped silicon carbide) can be employed. Such bi-layer film can be deposited by PECVD methods on a partially fabricated semiconductor substrate having exposed layers of dielectric and metal.

The present invention provides a low dielectric constant copper diffusion barrier film suitable for use in a semiconductor device and methods for fabricating such a film. Some embodiments of the film are formed of a silicon-based material doped with boron. Other embodiments are formed, at least in part, of boron nitride. Some such embodiments include a moisture barrier film that includes oxygen and / or carbon. Preferred embodiments of the copper diffusion barrier maintain a stable dielectric constant of less than 4.5 in the presence of atmospheric moisture.

The present invention provides a unique method of manufacturing an inexpensive, hermetically sealed ammunition container by the use of a conventional canning operation where the ammunition is inserted into cans that have been enamel coated inside and out and placed between resilient cushioning plugs and put into a vacuum chamber. Optionally, all of the air, atmosphere / oxygen and atmospheric moisture that may be present in the can is removed and replaced with an inert gas before the can is sealed. This packaging system fulfills the need for a method of storing ammunition over an extended period of time, and provides a convenient, air tight and compact package for ammunition and related components.

Localized temperature control in a thermal cycler is achieved by thermoelectric modules that are protected from exposure to atmospheric moisture by a pair of loop-shaped gaskets that seal off an enclosure formed by the sample block, the heat sink, and a support frame to which the components are secured. The heat sink is a block with a plurality of fins and is secured to the thermoelectric modules by one or more clamping bars that fit between the fins and are arranged to eliminate interference with the fin geometry and with the functional surface area of the fins. Electric leads are embedded in a molded retainer element, each lead being in the shape of a “U” with two exposed legs joined by a bar at one end, one of the leads extending into the region sealed from the atmosphere and the other extending outside the region.

A fastener suitable for use in airplane manufacture or repair that is coated with a pre-mixed moisture cure sealant. The sealant layer is coated with a frangible moisture barrier that will break apart when the fastener is installed, thus exposing the sealant to atmospheric moisture. Once exposed to moisture, the sealant will begin to cure. Preferred embodiments also provide a moisture indicator that provides a visual indication that the outer moisture resistant layer has been damaged.

A system and method for transferring heat from a process source and dissipating it to the ambient atmosphere. The system uses a low-volatility, hygroscopic working fluid to reject thermal energy directly to ambient air. Direct-contact heat exchange allows for the creation of large interfacial surface areas for effective heat transfer. Heat transfer is further enhanced by water vapor pressure gradients present between the equilibrium moisture content of the working fluid and the ambient air. Cyclic absorption and evaporation of atmospheric moisture dampens variations in cooling capacity because of ambient temperature changes. The low-volatility and hygroscopic nature of the working fluid prevents complete evaporation of the fluid and a net consumption of water.

The invention relates to systems and methods for portable water production. Systems and methods are disclosed for water collection from atmospheric moisture in large quantities in uncontrolled outdoor environments where the temperature may be cold and humidity levels low. To extract water from air when the dew point is low, a heat exchanger cools to a point where water vapor is deposited on its surface as ice. The heat exchanger then cycles through a heating phase to melt the ice and generate liquid water. The accumulation of frost is advantageous. Frost accumulation enables water collection when the dew point is low. Disclosed variations enhance efficiency and environmental tolerance.

An ordinary golf ball is cleaned and then treated with an emulsion depositing in the dimples a hologram having the capacity to reflect a pre-selected wavelength of laser-beam. If a player temporarily looses such ball, a hand-held unit directs an infra-red laser beam of said pre-selected wavelength, desirably one not absorbed by atmospheric moisture, such as 1310 nm. Said hand-held unit contains an analyzer evaluating the light reflected back to such analyzer and attributable to such laser beam of said pre-selected wave-length. By evaluating the intensity of such reflected light, the golfer can target the location of the temporarily lost ball. Upon approaching the lost ball the angle at which the unit would be held would be modified for focusing on the lost ball. Earphones, meters, or other diagnostic equipment can monitor the intensity of the light reflected back from such laser beam. Such hand held analyzer of reflected light involves an investment which is small enough that a golf club can include the rental of such a unit as a part of the rental for a golf cart. Preliminary estimates indicated that any country club failing to utilize the present invention will encounter greater losses from lost balls than those practicing the present invention, because the cost of periodically regenerating the hologram for a ball represents such a small fraction of the cost of a replacement ball

A method and apparatus for the extraction of atmospheric moisture and converting it into potable water that is entirely closed and sealed thereby reducing the possibility of bacterial contamination through the system. The water is collected through a compressor and a coil, then filtered through a series of filters and pumped thereafter into a sealed, pressurized bladder that keeps the filtered water unexposed to the atmosphere until it is dispensed for drinking.

An apparatus and method for recovering atmospheric moisture is disclosed utilizing the blade system of a wind turbine to both drive the compressor of a rotary refrigeration system and to provide a rotary turbo-machinery surface for its evaporator; whereon atmospheric moisture is recovered by reducing the temperature and pressure of the driving humid air. The rotational speed of the wind turbine is then used to maximize the rate of condensation; which is continuously centrifuged out from the rotary frame of blades into a stationary circular gutter where they accumulate and discharge. In the practice of this invention, a compressor with a rotary intake & discharge port is directly connected to a rotary evaporator & rotary condenser, generating a rotary refrigeration system wherein pressure of the liquid refrigerant is enhanced by the centrifugal force of rotation, enhancing the refrigeration capacity and condensation output.

A particulate filter particularly suited for analytical gravimetric weighing applications is disclosed. The particulate filter includes a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) media supported by a ring and yields stable microgram and submicrogram weighing results. The support ring may be PTFE, metal foil, or another non-hygroscopic polymer such that the mass of the filter does not vary with changes in atmospheric moisture. The filter simplifies the discharge of electrostatic charge buildup such that when a conductive filter media is combined with a conductive ring device, the discharge may be accomplished by placing the filter on a grounded weighing pan or other surface. The particulate filter can simplify filter identification by including identification symbols imprinted on each side of the filter media. Due to the chemically inert qualities of its components, the particulate filter is particularly suited for extraction techniques used during the detection of polycyclic hydrocarbons as is conducted in emissions and ambient air testing.

An ordinary golf ball is cleaned and then heated with an emulsion depositing in the dimples a hologram having the capacity to reflect a pre-selected wavelength of laser-beam. If a player temporarily losses such ball, a hand-held unit directs an infra-red laser beam of said pre-selected wavelength, desirably one not absorbed by atmospheric moisture, such as 1310 nm. Said hand-held unit contains an analyzer evaluating the light reflected back to such analyzer and attributable to such laser bean of said pre-selected wave-length. By evaluating the intensity of such reflected light, the golfer can target the location of the temporarily lost ball. Upon approaching the lost ball the angle at which the unit would be held would be modified for focusing on the lost ball. Earphones, meters, or other diagnostic equipment can monitor the intensity of the light reflected back from such laser beam. Such hand held analyzer of reflected light involves an investment which is small enough that a golf club can include the rental of such a unit as a part of the rental for a golf cart. Preliminary estimates indicated that any country club failing to utilize the present invention will encounter greater losses from lost balls than those practicing the present invention, because the cost of periodically regenerating the hologram for a ball represents such a small fraction of the cost of a replacement ball.

This invention relates to silylated polymers having mixed alkoxy groups on the silyl portion thereof, methods of their preparation, and compositions and reaction products formed therefrom. These alkoxysilylated polymers can be crosslinked when exposed to atmospheric moisture to become useful elastomers, sealants or adhesives. The presence of different alkoxy groups on the silicon atoms can control or otherwise moderate the cure speeds of these silylated polymers.

A condensation panel to be used for harvesting water from atmospheric moisture during those times of the diurnal cycle when relative humidity is at or near 100% utilizes very localized cooling to optimize condensation on a surface whose materials promote the condensation and collection of the water. The panel is passive in the sense that it can be deployed and left in an unmaintained condition for considerable periods of time. At least one time each day, almost certainly in the morning, water harvested by the process of assisted condensation can be collected for use.